The South Central VA Operation Christmas Child team is preparing for the collection of gift-filled shoeboxes for children around the world. National Collection Week is November 12-19 and now is the perfect time to start shopping for school supplies, hygiene items, small toys, etc. Even something as small as a pencil can truly bless a child who might otherwise not be able to attend school due to the lack of supplies.

A Countdown Event this Thursday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at Farmville United Methodist Church will feature Jacqueline Gonzalez, a shoe box recipient from Nairobi as guest speaker. Free materials, decorative boxes, and refreshments will be provided. For additional info call (434) 223-8988.

A second Countdown Event will be on Thursday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. at Crenshaw United Methodist Church in Blackstone. For additional information call Mimi at (434) 292-4887.

A Catfish Dinner fundraiser is on Friday, Sept. 28, at Farmville United Methodist Church from 5-7 p.m. For ticket info call (434) 392-4686. All proceeds to benefit the Community Youth Parking Party in November.

A community Packing Party for middle and upper school youth will be on Saturday, Nov. 3. Sponsors, donations, and volunteers are needed to help area youth pack 1,000 shoe boxes. For additional info call: Sarah Stokes (434) 223-8988; Peggy Vaughan (434) 645-0391.

The South Central VA OCC team represents the counties of Appomattox, Buckingham, Brunswick, Charlotte, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Nottoway, and Prince Edward and has set a 2012 goal of 12,500 shoe box gifts. OCC is an international relief organization sponsored by Samaritan's Purse.